P222E code meaning
Barometric Pressure Sensor B Circuit Intermittent/Erratic
Powertrain system Generic code P22xx codes Check engine light
What P222E means
P222E catches a sensor B signal that jitters. Outside air pressure changes slowly, so GM measures noise directly: every 12.5 ms the difference to the previous reading is taken, and the absolute differences over 80 consecutive readings are added up into a so-called string length. If that total exceeds 100 kPa, the one-second sample counts as failed; four failures in five samples set the code as Type B, MIL after two trips. GM uses this in the 2018 tables for the 3.0 L LGW and in a 2016 engine family. The fault differs from P222C/P222D, where the voltage sits steadily outside its limits, and from P222B, where a smooth signal shows the wrong value. Loose pins, chafed wires and electrical interference are the usual suspects.
P222E at a glance
- Check engine lightYes, usually on
- Emissions testCan fail
- Limp modeNot expected
- Repair difficultyMedium, DIY possible
- Typical labor0.5 to 2 hours
- Clears after repairWhen cleared with a scanner
Symptoms of P222E
- Check engine light that may come and go
- Second barometric value jumping on the scan tool
Common causes of P222E
- Most likelyLoose or corroded terminal at sensor B or the ECM
- PossibleChafed wire with intermittent contact
- Less likelyElectrical interference, for example from a poorly grounded component nearby
Check the most likely causes first. Replacing parts by guesswork is the most expensive way to clear a code.
Parts involved
Barometric pressure sensorSensor wiring
What each part of P222E means
| P | Powertrain system: engine, fuel system, ignition, emissions and transmission. |
| 2 | Generic code (second SAE range): it means the same on every make. |
| 2 | Area: fuel and air metering (injector circuit). |
| 2E | The exact fault in that area. |
What to do next
- Note P222E and any other codes stored with it: several codes together often point to one cause.
- Check for loose connectors and damaged wiring around the parts the code names.
- Check open recalls for your car: some faults are fixed for free by the dealer. Enter your VIN.
- Clear the code only after the repair. If it comes back, the fault is still there.
Buying a used car? Scan it for stored codes before you pay. A recently cleared memory can hide a problem.
Questions about P222E
What does P222E mean?
P222E means "Barometric Pressure Sensor B Circuit Intermittent/Erratic". P222E catches a sensor B signal that jitters. It is a generic code, so it means the same on every make.
Is it safe to drive with P222E?
Usually yes, for a short time, if the check engine light is steady and the car drives normally. If the light flashes or the car runs badly, stop and have it checked.
Will P222E fail an emissions test?
Yes, it can. P222E is emissions-related, so most inspection programs fail a car while it is stored or while the check engine light is on.
How hard is P222E to fix?
Difficulty: medium. A typical repair takes 0.5 to 2 hours of work. A careful DIY repair is possible with basic tools and a scanner.
Will P222E clear itself after the repair?
Clear the code with a scanner after the repair. If the fault is fixed, it does not come back.